Among Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) is world-renowned for its unique educational model and professionally oriented research. Founded in 1996, RSIS has evolved many times and has become one of the most prestigious international relations and strategic studies schools in Asia. This school is not only informative but also inspiring, providing students with an in-depth platform for understanding international affairs and security issues.
The purpose of RSIS is to help policymakers formulate comprehensive strategic thinking through in-depth academic discussions and practical experience.
RSIS, originally known as the Institute of Defense and Strategic Studies (IDSS), is an independent research institution within Nanyang Technological University. In 2007, RSIS was formally established and took over the teaching functions of IDSS, becoming a key institution for international and security studies. The school’s curriculum has different research centers, such as the International Terrorism and Political Violence Research Center and the Non-Traditional Security Research Center, which all show the school’s concern for diverse security issues.
RSIS’s research covers Asia-Pacific security, conflict and non-traditional security, international political economy and many other areas. Students and faculty regularly participate in workshops and academic conferences to share their latest research results and insights. Such an academic atmosphere not only cultivates students' critical thinking and practical abilities, but also promotes international academic exchanges.
Research activities are not limited to academic discussions, but also incorporate policy analysis to enhance understanding of current geopolitical events.
RSIS's master's degree program is designed for professionals who want to develop in the field of international affairs, including four majors: strategic studies, international relations, international political economy and Asian studies. The school cooperates with the University of Warwick in the UK to provide dual degree courses, allowing students to communicate between the two famous universities and expand their international horizons.
The school's doctoral program is aimed at graduate students, aiming to cultivate future academic leaders, provide individual guidance from mentors, and conduct deeper research.
The alumni network of RSIS is equally impressive, with many graduates having important influence in politics and academia. For example, the son of the former Indonesian president and several senior leaders of international organizations came from this school. Not only do they play a leadership role in the Asian region, they also extend Singapore's influence globally.
With the dynamic evolution of international relations, RSIS continues to adjust its curriculum and research focus to ensure that students can respond to changing global challenges. The school actively participates in various seminars and plays an important role in security cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, and is committed to becoming a leading institution in this field.
From global governance to domestic security to technological advancement, RSIS's research scope continues to expand and aims to serve the needs of the times.
Whether you focus on international political economy or explore emerging security challenges, RSIS provides students with an excellent learning platform. Here, the combination of professional teachers and diversified teaching content enables every student to gain profound professional knowledge and practical experience in the context of globalization. So, for students who want to make an impact in international affairs, can such a course truly be a critical step toward success?